Dangote Group Denies Rift with Elumelu Over Refinery

The Dangote Group has officially dismissed viral claims suggesting a rift between Aliko Dangote and businessman Toni Elumelu over funding for the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The company described the reports as false, misleading, and a deliberate misrepresentation of facts.

In a statement issued by the group’s Chief Brand Communication Officer, Anthony Chiejina, it was emphasized that neither Dangote nor the company sought financial assistance from Elumelu or any other prominent Nigerian businessmen for the refinery's construction. The statement also clarified that claims of Elumelu pledging $20 million and subsequently cutting off communication were unfounded.

The Dangote Group reiterated that it maintains a long-standing cordial relationship with Elumelu, contrary to the circulating claims. The company cautioned content creators and digital platforms against spreading misinformation, including AI-generated content that could harm its reputation.

The group urged those behind the false claims to provide verified evidence and to cease the circulation of misleading information.